The Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management in Fiji has achieved remarkable progress in enhancing rural infrastructure during the first half of 2023. From January to June, the ministry completed 119 rural road crossings and currently has an additional 46 under construction. This initiative aims to reduce rural isolation and improve access to essential services for communities across the country.
Minister Sakiasi Ditoka shared these insights in Parliament, noting that the community access roads, footpaths, and crossings program focuses on linking remote areas with critical services like schools, healthcare, and markets. The completed crossings include significant contributions from various divisions: the Western Division led with 38, followed by the Central Division with 33, the Northern Division with 25, and the Eastern Division with 23. These efforts encompass a wide range of infrastructure types, including roads, footpaths, and footbridges.
However, Minister Ditoka also emphasized a significant challenge: the ministry lacks a dedicated maintenance budget. Consequently, upgrades depend largely on ongoing community projects that employ local labor and utilize local materials. This strategy not only fosters sustainability but also empowers community involvement in addressing their own infrastructure needs.
The minister further elaborated on the broader implications of these infrastructure initiatives, highlighting that they not only enhance connectivity but also bolster rural economies, promote social cohesion, and improve resilience against disasters. By providing enhanced access to resources, these projects play a crucial role in elevating the living standards of rural populations.
This infrastructure enhancement is in line with the government’s ongoing efforts to invest in rural connectivity. Recent projects have significantly transformed lives by prioritizing safety and accessibility, and it is hoped that such initiatives will spark similar advancements across Fiji. The vision is to create a future where rural communities are more connected, safe, and prosperous.
The sustained attention to rural infrastructure underlines the government’s commitment to improving the lives of all citizens, ensuring that even the most remote areas benefit from development and support. This proactive approach not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term community resilience and growth.